The Indian Navy on Saturday, July 11, commissioned INS Mahendragiri under Project 17A, marking a major milestone in the country’s pursuit of defence self-reliance and indigenous warship building. The sixth indigenous stealth frigate was commissioned into the navy’s eastern fleet at Visakhapatnam.

Built with more than 75% indigenous content, INS Mahendragiri is the sixth ship of the Nilgiri-class frigates and the fourth vessel in its class to be built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). According to reports, the advanced warship is the sixth vessel being constructed under Project 17A, to be delivered to the Indian Navy in a short span of 17 months from the delivery of the first ship of the class, INS Nilgiri, on December 20, 2024.

Why is it called ‘Mahendragiri’?

The new indigenous stealth frigate takes its name from the Mahendragiri mountain range located in the Eastern Ghats, symbolising “strength, resilience and determination”, according to a press release. This vessel is the first advanced Indian naval warship to bear the name. It is fully prepared to join the country’s naval fleet as a mission-ready combat platform.

Advanced defence capabilities of INS Mahendragiri

Mahendragiri is equipped with advanced stealth features, reduced radar signature, enhanced survivability, and a high degree of automation. It is powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, allowing high-speed operations and prolonged endurance across diverse maritime missions. The warship’s construction drew on a vast network of Indian industries, including many micro, small, and medium enterprises, creating job opportunities.

The stealth frigate incorporates a variety of advanced and modern weapons and sensor systems. This includes electronic warfare systems, surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, anti-submarine warfare capabilities and more.

‘Mighty, Majestic, Matchless’

The commissioning of INS Mahendragiri adds to the fleet of the Indian Navy’s operational capability, positioning India as a leading indigenous warship-building country. The frigate is likely to act as a force multiplier, safeguarding the national maritime interests and playing a role in maintaining security across the Indo-Pacific

As the Indian Navy boosts its maritime capabilities, INS Mahendragiri, guided by its motto, “Mighty, Majestic, Matchless”, is expected to serve the country with distinction.